Pat Cummins for Australia [Source: AFP]A likely return of Pat Cummins in the ODI format is in the works as per recent reports. The cricketer who last played in the format in 2024 is keen to deliver again after two years in the second game of the series.The unit of Australia currently led by Mitchell Marsh has been attacked vehemently by the Proteas unit in the first ODI as they booked a series opener loss. To save the face the 2nd game will be a crucial one for Australia to stand up on South Africa’s home conditions.Pat Cummins likely to be included after Josh Inglis setbackCummins' potential comeback comes at a time when Australia have suffered a significant blow to their batting resources. Josh Inglis has been ruled out of the remainder of the tour after breaking his finger, leaving the visitors without one of their most reliable middle-order contributors.The timing is particularly unfortunate for Australia, with Inglis having struck a century against Zimbabwe last week. His absence puts additional responsibility on Matthew Renshaw and the rest of the middle order.Australia's problems were exposed in Durban, where they collapsed while chasing 298 after a flying start from Travis Head and Mitchell Marsh. South Africa's spinners Keshav Maharaj and Bjorn Fortuin then changed the complexion of the chase.With Australia trailing in the series, Cummins' return, after being ruled out in the first game, could provide another experienced option as they attempt to level the contest.Also Read- Who Is Jack Edwards, Pat Cummins' Replacement In AUS vs SA 1st ODI?Cummins practicing in the nets ahead of 2nd ODINow, Pat Cummins has stepped up his preparations at The Wanderers as Australia weigh up bringing their Test captain back into the ODI side. The fast bowler was put through an intense running session before moving into the nets, where he spent time batting and appeared comfortable ahead of the second ODI.The 33-year-old's workload will remain an important consideration though, particularly with Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood also in the squad. However, his presence could provide Australia with additional experience and depth as they attempt to keep the series alive. Importantly, Cummins’ inclusion is not guranteed for the 2nd ODI since, he might take his time to join in the 3rd ODI on Septemeber 30 as well.“After a lengthy, multi-effort running session, the Test captain batted in the nets and shapes as a likely inclusion – if not on Sunday, then certainly in Wednesday's series finale in Potchefstroom,” the Cricket Australia report reads.Pat Cummins and his reliability in South AfricaCummins has already experienced the demands of ODI cricket in South Africa, having played five matches in the country between 2011 and 2020. His record with the ball includes nine wickets at an average of 28.22, with best figures of 3/28. He has also maintained an economy rate of 5.90, showing his ability to contribute without allowing the scoring rate to run away.Against South Africa across his ODI career, Pat Cummins has taken 20 wickets in 13 matches. He has conceded runs at an average of 33.45 and an economy rate of 5.78, with his best bowling performance also coming at 3/28. While those figures do not make him an overwhelming force against the Proteas, they underline the experience he could bring to Australia's attack if selected for the ongoing series.Cummins has also offered some lower-order support with the bat, although his numbers remain modest. He has scored 97 runs in 12 ODI innings against South Africa, averaging 13.85. In South Africa, he has made 29 runs in four innings at an average of 14.50. His main value remains his bowling, but his ability to contribute late in the innings adds another dimension to his role.Also Read- IND vs WI Live Streaming, Live Telecast- Where To West Indies Tour Of India 1st ODI 2026?
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